UK learner drivers have it rough. Driving lessons are expensive and experienced drivers can be quite aggressive on the road. At least getting your licence in the UK is a rather straightforward process, especially when you compare it to some other countries. In the UK, you go online to apply for your provisional licence. You can then choose how much practice you undertake, either from paid lessons or private practice. Once you've passed your theory test, you’re then eligible to take a practical driving test. But what does the rest of the world have to put up with?

UK Learner Drivers vs. The World

Top Gear published a list of interesting rules and regulations that are enforced upon learner drivers in different parts of the world. Here are some of our favourites from that list...

Finland

Finland is home to some of the best drivers in the world, probably because it takes them 2 years to pass! In those 2 years, learner drivers must have had ‘Skid-Pan Sessions’ and ‘Day and Night Driving Courses’. They must have also had a significant amount of private training before they can qualify for a driving test.

USA

Some parts of the US require a learner driver to be 21 before they can receive their full (unrestricted) licence. On the other hand, some parts of the US will allow a teenager as young as 14 to have their learner's permit. These work much like UK provisionals. The main difference being, whereas the UK learner starts driving at 17, the American permit holder can start a whole 3 years earlier!

Japan

In Japan, you can’t just get into the car with your instructor and drive on any random road. You learn on purpose-built courses that simulate roads.

Nigeria

Ever wished for a cheaper alternative to driving lessons? Well, In Nigeria, only up until recently has a driving test been mandatory. Before you could simply buy a licence for $30! What do you find most frustrating about learning to drive? Let us know in the comments below!